10 Traditional Cakes from Around the World

Gateau derois proves that cakes aren't just for birthdays, and toys aren't just for kids. In France, gateau de rois, or king cake, is part of the Twelfth Night celebration honoring the Christian holiday of Epiphany in January. Recipes can vary, but most use puffed pastry, choux pastry, a thin sponge cake or meringue filled with cream and fruit.

The cake itself is only half the treat. Gateau de rois contains a hidden bean, toy or trinket. If it's in your slice, then you're the king or queen of the festivities. Plus, finding the treasure is said to be a sign of good luck. Gateau de rois isn't the only confection that might contain an unexpected treat -- there's a similar tradition for Portuguese sweet bread, too.

Let Them Eat Meat Tart

"Gateau," the French word for cake, can mean a rich dessert, but it may also refer to a meat cake or tart. When you see the word gateau as part of a recipe, the next word usually describes the cake's flavor, region or style of dough.